Pastoral Letter: 3rd Quarter 2023

AFM Pastoral Letter 3rd Quarter 2023_

Dear AFM Family,

I am very thankful that our National Conference (7-9 September 2023) was indeed not just another meeting, but a time of refreshment, fellowship and real upliftment. We have been reminded that we are the light of the world. That this light should never be hidden but must be like a lamp on a lamp stand, and a city on a hill – a light visible to everybody.

“We have been reminded that we are the light of the world. “

Our light must shine in such a way that people will see our good deeds and glorify the true God in heaven. Our light must so shine so that it will have a generational impact, passing on our faith and our DNA as Pentecostal believers to our young people and children. We, like many others, used to be in the darkness, but since we became the Lord’s people, we are people of the Light and must live purposefully like people who belong to the Light. Our light must never reflect the changing cultures and circumstances around us, instead, just like the moon, which has no light of itself but only reflects the sun, we must always reflect Jesus.

Several people described the conference as “powerful and memorable”, “a supernatural encounter” and “full of the power of the Holy Spirit.” I especially noted the comment of someone who said: “Our identity has been reaffirmed.” My prayer is that we will not just move on to the next, or another conference and experience, but that we will take the time to reflect on what God through His Holy Spirit shared with us during this conference. May we then not be like the person who sees him/herself in a mirror, go away and forget but may we really do in practice what we have heard.

During the PCD (Pastors Continuous Development) sessions which were well attended, two very relevant subjects were presented. One was on mental health and how we can proactively address it, and the other on a Pentecostal perspective on the phenomenon of “fake” prophets. For this Pastoral Letter, I have requested our PCD speakers at the conference – Hermann du Plessis and Dr Daniel Andrew – to each write an article that will further develop our understanding of these two topics. I trust that it will be a blessing to you.

Ten years ago, “The Institute for the Future” made a statement that the biggest challenge for leaders in the next decade will be to stay healthy. Many frowned, but today the reality is that we are facing a challenge to keep leaders in businesses and churches from derailing. The facts have stacked up and are screaming at us to pay attention to the current mental health of our leaders. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has conducted recent studies to figure out how to deal with the current mental health pandemic, because quite frankly it could have a catastrophic impact on the global workforce and economy – especially leaders who deal with high levels of stress.

Since 2016 we have seen the rise of “diseases of despair” as coined by Princeton academics. In the United States (US) the life expectancy has declined for 6 straight years due to the rise in suicide, drug and alcohol related illnesses. People have lost meaning and hope in the US. People have lost their ability to cope with high levels of stress and anxiety and as some would acknowledge – the American dream has become the American nightmare. Placing the individual at the centre of life and personal fulfilment leads to Narcissism and eventually high levels of competition and selfishness. But not only in the US, across the world levels of anxiety have risen consistently. Commentary on the latest anxiety statistics is concerning and the reality is that 17-year-old kids in high school have the same level of anxiety than people admitted to mental institutions during the 1960’s.

“People have lost their ability to cope with high levels of stress and anxiety…”

In South Africa, one-third of our workforce suffers from severe anxiety and/or depression. That also means that one-third of leaders struggle with mental health. The impact of this one-third on the other two-thirds of your leaders and workforce could be severe. They (the healthy two-thirds) will usually pick up the additional work not performed by the one-third suffering from mental illness. Over the long term, this will lead to burnout and the mental deterioration of the two-thirds of your workforce doing additional work to help your business succeed. This is a vicious cycle that needs to be managed proactively.

How do you go about doing this? Here are some practical steps for local congregations:

Break the stigma. Talk about mental health. Inform people about it. Give them the facts. Understand that there are various causes and that we need to be open about it.

Preach about it. What does the Bible teach about our mental health? If we look at Elijah in 1 Kings 19, what do we see and what do we learn? How do we offer Biblical wisdom and assistance to people on how to develop their mental strength? Talk about lifestyle issues that severely impact mental health.

“How do we offer Biblical wisdom and assistance to people on how to develop their mental strength?”

Learn with your people. Speak to people in your congregation who struggle with mental health and try to learn and understand how they feel. Listen to them!

Deliver courses. Get wise, pastoral psychologists to teach your congregation how to build their mental strength. Help people to pro-actively take care of their mental health.

Invite people to get assistance. Encourage people to seek counselling. Pastors should guide people to find good therapy if needed.

Build a network of professional people. Work hard to meet therapists and counsellors and find out what their methodology is to assist people in sessions. Find good counsellors that you can refer to, who will make sure your people get the right and appropriate help they need.

“May God use us to be a light that drives away the darkness of all these mental health challenges.”

As a church, we can reach out to people in this challenging time. May God use us to be a light that drives away the darkness of all these mental health challenges. In addition to this article, also make sure to access the following resources as presented and live-streamed from the ABLAZE AFM National Conference:

A PowerPoint Presentation:
http://www.events.afm-ags.org/

A Live Stream Recording: 
https://www.youtube.com/live/Yx5SNK7CGEw?si=YrMUMHXjTNBJU95M

Fake Prophets Phenomenon and Other Related Issues

The Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa forms part of the Classical Pentecostal Movement that originated at the beginning of the 20th Century and includes several Pentecostal churches that trace their roots to this group. Prophecy and prophetic ministry were never difficult or strange to this group of believers, because they believed the church is built on the foundations laid by the apostles and prophets. Some of the so-called Neo-Pentecostal prophet movements in independent Pentecostal Churches embraced certain elements of the “prosperity gospel” or “wealth and health gospel” which led to profiteering – meaning that the “prophet” has now become a “profiteer”.

Madzokere (2018: 281) divides the pastor as profiteer into five major categories: (1) as empire builder and not builders of the kingdom; (2) as profiteers based on anointing gimmicks – whereby items like oil, clothes, pencils, etc. are anointed; (3) the disguise of religious tourism – whereby people travel as individuals or groups for pilgrimage, missionary or leisure purposes; (4) the nepotism argument – whereby relatives and friends are employed without regard for merit in the ministry; (5) the blind nationalistic personalities of pastors that preach peace while there is unrest – becoming catalysts to the impoverishment of the people.

In some cases, these beliefs led to harmful practices that were criticized and led to proposals by the government to regulate churches in South Africa. Most church groupings resisted this because freedom of religion is enshrined in our Constitution. Some of these practices included but were not limited to what Dube (2019:25) call “the modern-day flamboyant prophets” that propagate a kind of gospel that departs from basic Christian teachings, enriching themselves, using unorthodox means to “heal” people and conduct their businesses. The various kinds of abuses committed to followers are public knowledge – some of them included spraying insecticide on people; eating of rats, grass and drinking petrol; touching females inappropriately and even abusing and raping them; and profiteering (Dube, 2019:29).

Fake Prophets Depart from The Biblical Meaning of Prophetic Ministry

They are departing from the traditional Christian values in ministry like humility, compassion, selfless service and servant leadership. Instead, these values are replaced with a pre-occupation with image consciousness, self-aggrandizement, and the enlargement of personal ministry at any cost. It is damaging to the image of the church in the public square in Africa and although the phenomenon is not peculiar to Africa, it has become prevalent here (Owojaiye, 2019).

The English word prophet is from the Greek word “prophetes” – taking on a mediating role between the people and God. Another meaning is the Greek word “nabi” which means someone who can speak of the future or speak before things happen. “Someone who proclaims” to the people, priests and kings, “thus says the Lord” (Exodus 4:22; Isaiah 48:10; Jeremiah 12:14) Prophets were persons called by God; who acted under divine compulsion; were having personal integrity; gave prophecies that included both “forth-telling” and “fore-telling”; exposing false ideologies; truth-telling; and function alongside kings and priests.

In the New Testament, the prophetic tradition of proclamation and prediction continued in the early church (John 1:29; Acts 13:1-10). Later in the New Testament, followers are encouraged not to despise the words of the prophets (1 Thessalonians 5:20-22) and still to test the spirits to see if they are from God or false prophets (1 Peter 2:1-3; Revelations 19:20-21).

The testing of prophets and discernment of prophecy was not something new as it is often quoted in both the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 13: 1-10; Jeremiah 23:1-4, 10-14, 16-17, 25-32) and in the New Testament (Matthew 7:15-20). True prophets turn the people back from their evil ways to God (Deuteronomy 13:22), speak the truth, glorify God, benefit the community (John 16:13-15, 17:13-26; 1 Corinthians 14:3-5) and be validated by others (1 Corinthians 14:29-33). Paul encourages the believers to prophesy (1 Corinthians 14:1; Romans 12:4-7; Ephesians 4:11-16).

Guidelines to Discern Prophets Today
The criteria for distinguishing between false and true prophets in biblical prophecy are as follows:

The call of the prophet. 
The call narrative of the prophet plays a definite role in the bible and normally follows a certain structural form which includes theophany, resistance from the prophet/ess, pressure from the deity, acceptance by the prophet/ess and commissioning of the prophet/ess by the deity (Madzokere and Machingura, 2015:57-58).

Ecstasy.
Called the hallmark of prophecy with some having a pro-ecstasy and others an anti-ecstasy stance. Pro-ecstasy means that the mental condition of an individual occurs in a way that consciousness is wholly or partially suspended, thought and volition cease, and the person is controlled and subjected to the Spirit of God. Anti- ecstasy on the other hand is against the suspension of your mental faculties during prophecy, seeing it as a sign of false prophecy, as seen in the clash between the Baal prophets and Elijah (1 Kings 18:2).

Professionalism.
The criterion for true prophets is that they view their call as a vocation and not a profession associated with payments or rewards. The criterion of remuneration is based on the assumption that if the prophet is paid, he/she will seek to please the client as seen in Micah 3:5.

Performance of miracles.
Contemporary prophets are associated with the performance of miracles and the title carries a sense of power with it – giving publicity, recognition, status and financial proceeds.

Prediction and fulfilment.
True prophets are distinguished from the false ones because their predictions have come to pass. Historically as understood in Deuteronomy 13:1-5; 18:21-22 the prophet should be stoned to death if it is not fulfilled. In some cases, like in Elijah’s prophecy over the house of Ahab (1 Kings 21-29) it was fulfilled after his death (2 Kings 9:14-10:36).

Morality and teaching obedience to God.
Morality is a virtue expected from prophets and religious believers, so when a prophet leads an immoral life such a prophet is branded as a false prophet.

As Pentecostals, we believe that we should strive to prophesy, that the prophetic ministry is part of the five-fold ministry that can give guidance and direction to the people of God and that a church that walks in the fire of the Holy Spirit is the best antidote against fake prophets and their “miracle gimmicks”. Let us test the spirits and see whether it is from God but let us be careful not to quench the Spirit in easily denouncing prophecy and prophetic ministry. In addition to this article, also make sure to access the following resources as presented and live-streamed from the ABLAZE AFM National Conference:

A PowerPoint Presentation:
http://www.events.afm-ags.org/

A Live Stream Recording:
https://www.youtube.com/live/p5703lIiOwg?si=N6Nk87P-f33PDHTS

References:

Madzokere, N. 2018. Prophets or Profiteers? An interrogative study of the selected contemporary Pentecostal prophets in Zimbabwe in the context of Development. Journal of Sustainable Development in Africa 20 (1): 276-289.

Dube, E.E.N, 2019. Desperation in an attempt to curb modern-day prophets: Pentecostalisation and the Church in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Conspectus: The Journal of the South African Theological Seminary volume 27: 25-34.

Owojaiye, M. 2019. The problem of false prophets in Africa: Strengthening the church in the face of a troublesome trend, Lausanne Global Analysis 8(6).

Madzokere, N., Machingura, F. 2015. True and False Prophets/esses in the light of Prophets/esses and Wonders in Zimbabwe, Journal of Critical Southern Studies volume 3, Winter (2015).

During the conference, and as part of the church’s 115th Birthday Anniversary, “The Story of John G. Lake – the first General of the AFM of South Africa” was launched. Authored by Past. Linda Marx, Prof Marius Nel and Past. Johan Klopper, this book is now available from the Amazon platform in a Kindle format: https://a.co/d/gVDvqdW. The story of John G. Lake will inspire, encourage and remind people that the Promise of the Father and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, is available to every believer. I encourage you to read it and trust that you will be blessed by it!

I thank everybody who were part of the organization to make the conference possible, as well as all who were part of the daily program and every individual who made the effort to attend. Some people travelled far – and for more than one day – to be present. We experienced the diversity of our church in worship, in the program and in attendance. Many people testified about the spirit of unity and peace amongst all present.

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Pastorale Brief: 3de Kwartaal 2023

AGS Pastorale Brief 3de Kwartaal 2023_

Liewe AGS Familie,

Ek is baie dankbaar dat ons Nasionale Konferensie (7-9 September 2023) inderdaad nie net nog ‘n byeenkoms was nie, maar ‘n tyd van verfrissing, onderlinge gemeenskap en werklike opheffing. Ons is daaraan herinner dat óns die lig van die wêreld is. Dat hierdie lig nooit weggesteek moet word nie, maar soos ‘n lamp op ‘n kandelaar moet wees, en ‘n stad op ‘n heuwel – ‘n lig wat vir almal sigbaar is.

“Ons is daaraan herinner dat óns die lig van die wêreld is.”

Ons lig moet só skyn dat mense ons goeie dade sal sien en die ware God in die hemel sal verheerlik. Ons lig moet só skyn dat dit ‘n impak op die volgende generasies sal hê en ons geloof en DNS as Pinkstergelowiges aan ons jongmense en kinders oordra. Ons was soos baie ander, vroeër in die duisternis, maar sedert ons die Here se volk geword het, is ons mense van die Lig en moet ons doelgerig lewe soos mense wat aan die Lig behoort. Ons lig mag nooit die veranderende kulture en omstandighede rondom ons weerkaats nie. Net soos die maan wat geen lig van sy eie het nie, maar net die son weerkaats – so moet ons Jesus altyd weerkaats.

Verskeie mense het die konferensie beskryf as “kragtig en onvergeetlik”, as “’n bonatuurlike ontmoeting” en “vol van die krag van die Heilige Gees”. Ek het veral kennis geneem van die opmerking van iemand wat gesê het: “Ons identiteit is herbevestig.” My gebed is dat ons nie net sal aanbeweeg na die volgende of ‘n ander konferensie en ervaring nie, maar dat ons die tyd sal neem om na te dink oor wat God deur sy Heilige Gees tydens hierdie konferensie met ons gedeel het. Mag ons dan nie soos die persoon wees wat hom/haarself in ‘n spieël sien, weggaan en vergeet nie – maar laat ons regtig in die praktyk dóen wat ons gehoor het.

Tydens die PCD-sessies – wat goed bygewoon is – is twee baie relevante onderwerpe aangebied. Die een was oor geestesgesondheid en hoe ons dit proaktief kan aanspreek, en die ander oor ‘n Pinksterperspektief op die verskynsel van “valse” profete. Vir hierdie Pastorale Brief het ek die twee ​​PCD-sprekers by die konferensie – Hermann du Plessis en Dr Daniel Andrew – versoek om elk ‘n artikel te skryf wat ons begrip van hierdie twee onderwerpe verder sal ontwikkel. Ek vertrou dat dit vir jou ‘n seën sal wees.

Tien jaar gelede het “The Institute for the Future” ’n stelling gemaak dat in die volgende dekade die grootste uitdaging vir leiers sal wees om gesond te bly. Baie het gefrons…maar vandag is dit ‘n realiteit dat ons hierdie uitdaging in die gesig staar – ‘n uitdaging om te keer dat Kerk- en besigheidsleiers ontspoor. Die feite het vermeerder en vereis ons om aandag te gee aan die huidige geestesgesondheid van ons leiers. Die Wêreldgesondheidsorganisasie (WGO) het onlangse studies gedoen om uit te vind hoe om die huidige geestesgesondheids pandemie te hanteer, want eerlikwaar kan dit ‘n katastrofiese impak op die wêreldwye arbeidsmag en ekonomie hê – veral leiers wat hoë vlakke van stres hanteer.

“Mense het hul vermoë verloor om hoë vlakke van stres en angs te hanteer…”

Sedert 2016, sien ons die ontstaan van kondisies wat beskryf word as “diseases of despair” – soos beskryf deur die Princeton-akademici. In die Verenigde State (VSA) het die lewensverwagting vir 6 agtereenvolgende jare afgeneem as gevolg van die toename in selfmoord-, dwelm- en alkoholverwante siektes. In die VSA sukkel mense om die betekenis van die lewe te verstaan en het hulle hoop verloor. Mense het hul vermoë verloor om hoë vlakke van stres en angs te hanteer en soos sommiges sal erken…die Amerikaanse droom het die Amerikaanse nagmerrie geword. Wanneer die individu sentraal staan tot ‘n persoon se lewe en persoonlike vervulling, lei dit tot narsisme (of selfliefde) en uiteindelik hoë vlakke van mededinging en selfsug. Oor die hele wêreld, nie net in die VSA nie, het vlakke van angs konsekwent gestyg. Die jongste angsstatistieke is kommerwekkend. Die realiteit is dat 17-jarige kinders op hoërskool dieselfde vlak van angs het as mense wat gedurende die 1960’s in geestesinrigtings opgeneem is.

In Suid-Afrika, ly een derde van ons arbeidsmag aan erge angs en/of depressie. Dit beteken ook dat een derde van leiers met geestesgesondheid sukkel. Die impak van hierdie een derde op die ander twee derdes van leiers en die arbeidsmag kan ernstig wees. Hulle (die gesonde twee derdes) sal gewoonlik bykomende werks verantwoordelikhede aanpak wat nie verrig word deur die een derde wat aan geestesongesteldheid ly nie. Oor die lang termyn sal dit lei tot uitbranding en die geestelike agteruitgang van die twee derdes van die arbeidsmag wat bykomende werk doen om besighede te help slaag. Dit is ‘n bose kringloop wat proaktief bestuur moet word.

Hoe gaan jy te werk om dit te doen? Hier is ‘n paar praktiese stappe vir plaaslike gemeentes:

Breek die stigma. Praat oor geestesgesondheid. Lig mense daaroor in. Gee vir hulle die feite. Verstaan ​​dat daar verskeie oorsake is en dat ons openlik daaroor moet wees.

Preek daaroor. Wat leer die Bybel ons oor geestesgesondheid? As ons na Elia kyk in 1 Konings 19, wat sien ons en wat leer ons? Hoe bied ons Bybelse wysheid en bystand aan mense oor hoe om hul geestelike krag te ontwikkel? Praat oor lewenstylkwessies wat geestesgesondheid ernstig beïnvloed.

“Hoe bied ons Bybelse wysheid en bystand aan mense oor hoe om hul geestelike krag te ontwikkel?”

Leer saam met jou mense. Praat met mense in jou gemeente wat sukkel met geestesgesondheid en probeer om te leer en te verstaan ​​hoe hulle voel. Luister na hulle!

Bied kursusse aan. Kry wyse, pastorale sielkundiges om jou gemeente te leer hoe om hul geestelike krag op te bou. Help mense om pro-aktief na hul geestesgesondheid om te sien.

Nooi mense om hulp te kry. Moedig mense aan om berading te soek. Pastore moet mense lei om goeie terapie te vind indien nodig.

Bou ‘n netwerk van professionele mense. Werk hard om terapeute en beraders te ontmoet en uit te vind wat hul metodologie is om mense in sessies by te staan. Kry goeie beraders na wie jy kan verwys, en wat sal seker maak dat jou mense die regte en toepaslike hulp kry wat hulle nodig het.

As kerk kan ons uitreik na mense in hierdie uitdagende tyd. Mag God ons gebruik om ‘n lig te wees wat die duisternis van al hierdie geestesgesondheidsuitdagings verdryf. Benewens hierdie artikel, maak ook seker dat jy toegang tot die volgende hulpbronne het soos aangebied en regstreeks gestroom vanaf die ABLAZE AGS Nasionale Konferensie:

‘n PowerPoint-aanbieding:
http://www.events.afm-ags.org/

‘n Regstreekse stroomopname:
https://www.youtube.com/live/Yx5SNK7CGEw?si=YrMUMHXjTNBJU95M

Die Verskynsel van Valse Profete en ander Verwante Kwessies

Die Apostoliese Geloofsending van Suid-Afrika vorm deel van die Klassieke Pinksterbeweging wat in die begin van die 20ste eeu ontstaan het en sluit verskeie Pinksterkerke in wat hul wortels na hierdie groep herlei. Profesie en profetiese bediening was nooit vir hierdie groep gelowiges moeilik of vreemd nie, omdat hulle glo dat die kerk gebou is op die fondamente wat deur die Bybelse apostels en profete gelê is. Sommige van die sogenaamde Neo-Pinkster “profeetbewegings” in onafhanklike Pinksterkerke het sekere elemente van die “voorspoedevangelie” of “rykdom en gesondheidsevangelie” omhels wat tot winsbejag gelei het – wat beteken dat die “profeet” in baie gevalle ‘n “winsbejagter” geword het.

Madzokere (2018:281) verdeel hierdie winsbejag aspek in vyf hoofkategorieë: (1) as ryksbouers en nie bouers van die Koninkryk nie; (2) as winsbejag gebaseer op salwingsfoefies – waardeur items soos olie, klere, potlode, ens. “gesalf” word; (3) die vermomming van godsdienstige toerisme – waardeur mense as individue of groepe reis vir pelgrimstogte-, sending- of ontspanningsdoeleindes met ‘n winsmotief; (4) die element van nepotisme – waardeur familielede en vriende in diens geneem word sonder inagneming van meriete of bedieningsvaardighede; (5) die blinde nasionalisties gefokusde persoonlikhede van “profete” wat vrede verkondig terwyl daar onrus is – en dan eintlik katalisators word vir die verarming van die mense.

In sommige gevalle het hierdie oortuigings gelei tot skadelike praktyke wat gekritiseer is en gelei het tot voorstelle van die regering om kerke in Suid-Afrika te reguleer. Die meeste kerkgroeperings het hulle hierteen verset omdat godsdiensvryheid in ons Grondwet verskans is. Sommige van hierdie praktyke sluit in, maar is nie beperk tot wat Dube (2019:25) noem “die hedendaagse flambojante profete” nie wat ‘n soort evangelie propageer wat afwyk van die basiese Christelike leerstellings, wat hulself verryk deur onortodokse middele te gebruik om mense te “genees” en hul besighede te bedryf. Die verskillende soorte vergrype wat gepleeg word, is openbare kennis – dit sluit in die spuit van insekdoder op mense; die eet van rotte, gras en die drink van petrol; vroue wat onvanpas aangeraak en selfs mishandel en verkrag word; en winsbejag (Dube, 2019:29).

Valse Profete Wyk af van die Bybelse Betekenis van die Profetiese Bediening

Hulle wyk af van die tradisionele Christelike waardes van die bediening soos nederigheid, deernis, onbaatsugtige diens en dienskneg-leierskap. In plaas daarvan word hierdie waardes vervang met ‘n beheptheid oor publiekebeeld, selfverheerliking, grootheidswaan en ‘n fokus op die persoon in bediening. Dit is skadelik vir die beeld van die kerk in die publiekeoog in Afrika en hoewel die verskynsel nie eie aan Afrika is nie, het dit hier redelik algemeen geword (Owojaiye, 2019).

Die Engelse woord “prophet” is van die Griekse woord “prophetes” – wat ‘n bemiddelende rol tussen die volk en God daarstel. Nog ‘n betekenis is die Griekse woord “nabi” wat iemand beteken wat van die toekoms kan praat of kan praat voordat dinge gebeur. Iemand wat aan die volk, priesters en konings verkondig, “so sê die Here” (Eksodus 4:22; Jesaja 48:10; Jeremia 12:14). Profete was persone wat deur God geroep is; wat onder goddelike dwang opgetree het; persoonlike integriteit gehad het; profesieë gegee het wat beide “vooruitwysing” en “voorverteling” ingesluit het; valse ideologieë blootgelê het; die waarheid oor kwessies geopenbaar het; en saam met konings en priesters gefunksioneer het.

In die Nuwe Testament het die profetiese tradisie van verkondiging en voorspelling in die vroeë kerk voortgeduur (Johannes 1:29; Handelinge 13:1-10). Later in die Nuwe Testament word volgelinge aangemoedig om nie die woorde van die profete te verag nie (1 Tessalonisense 5:20-22) en steeds die geeste op die proef te stel om te sien of hulle van God of valse profete afkomstig is (1 Petrus 2:1-3; Openbaring 19:20-21).

Die toetsing van profete en onderskeiding van profesie, soos dit dikwels in beide die Ou en Nuwe Testamente aangehaal word, was nie iets nuuts nie (Ou Testament: Deuteronomium 13: 1-10; Jeremia 23:1-4, 10-14, 16-17, 25-32) (Nuwe Testament: Matteus 7:15-20). Ware profete poog om die volk van God terug te draai van hulle bose weë na God toe (Deuteronomium 13:22). Ware profete praat die waarheid, verheerlik God, bevoordeel die gemeenskap (Johannes 16:13-15, 17:13-26; 1 Korintiërs 14:3-5) en hulle woord word deur ander bekragtig (1 Korintiërs 14:29-33). Paulus moedig die gelowiges aan om te profeteer (1 Korintiërs 14:1; Romeine 12:4-7; Efesiërs 4:11-16).

Riglyne om Vandag Tussen Ware en Valse Profete te Onderskei
Die kriteria om in Bybelse profesieë tussen valse en ware profete te onderskei, is soos volg:

Die roeping van die profeet.
Die roepingsverhaal van ‘n profeet speel ‘n definitiewe rol in die Bybel en volg gewoonlik ‘n sekere strukturele vorm wat teofanie (‘n roepingsmanifestasie van God), weerstand van die profeet/es, druk van die Here, aanvaarding deur die profeet/es en ‘n ingebruikneming van die profeet/es deur die Here (Madzokere en Machingura, 2015:57-58).

Ekstase.
Word soms ‘n kenmerk van profesie genoem, met sommige mense wat ‘n pro-ekstase benadering het, en ander ‘n anti-ekstase standpunt. Pro-ekstase beteken dat in die geestelike toestand van ‘n individu wat profeteer, sy/haar bewussyn op ‘n manier geheel of gedeeltelik opgeskort word. Eie denke en wil hou op, en die persoon word beheer en is onderworpe aan die Gees van God. Anti-ekstase aan die ander kant is gekant teen die opskorting van die verstandelike fakulteite tydens profesie, en sien dit as ‘n teken van valse profesie, soos gesien in die botsing tussen die Baälprofete en Elia (1 Konings 18: 2).

Professionaliteit.
Die maatstaf vir ware profete is dat hulle hul taak as ‘n roeping beskou en nie ‘n beroep wat verband hou met betalings of belonings nie. Die kriterium van vergoeding is gebaseer op die aanname dat indien die profeet betaal word, hy/sy sal poog om die kliënt tevrede te stel soos gesien in Miga 3:5.

Uitvoering van wonderwerke.
Hedendaagse profete word geassosieer met die uitvoering van wonderwerke en die titel dra ‘n gevoel van mag daarmee saam – wat publisiteit, erkenning, status en finansiële opbrengs tot gevolg het.

Voorspelling en vervulling.
Ware profete word onderskei van die valses omdat hulle voorspellings waar geword het. Histories soos verstaan in Deuteronomium 13:1-5; 18:21-22, moet die profeet met klippe doodgegooi word as die profesie nie vervul word nie. In sommige gevalle, soos in Elia se profesie oor die huis van Agab (1 Konings 21-29), is dit eers na sy dood vervul (2 Konings 9:14-10:36).

Moraliteit en onderrig van gehoorsaamheid aan God.
Moraliteit is ‘n deug wat van profete en godsdienstige gelowiges verwag word, dus wanneer ‘n profeet ‘n immorele lewe lei, word so ‘n profeet as ‘n valse profeet gebrandmerk.

As Pinkstergelowiges, glo ons dat ons daarna moet streef om te profeteer, dat die profetiese bediening deel is van die vyfvoudige bediening wat leiding aan die volk van God kan gee en dat ‘n kerk wat in die vuur van die Heilige Gees wandel, die beste teenmiddel teen valse profete en hulle “wonderfoefies” is. Kom ons toets die geeste en kyk of dit van God af kom, maar laat ons versigtig wees om nie die Heilige Gees te blus deur profesie en profetiese bediening maklik as vals af te maak nie.

Benewens hierdie artikel, maak ook seker dat jy toegang het tot die volgende bronne soos aangebied en regstreeks gestroom vanaf die ABLAZE AGS Nasionale Konferensie:

‘n PowerPoint-aanbieding:
http://www.events.afm-ags.org/

‘n Regstreekse stroomopname:
https://www.youtube.com/live/p5703lIiOwg?si=N6Nk87P-f33PDHTS

Verwysings:

Madzokere, N. 2018. Prophets or Profiteers? An interrogative study of the selected contemporary Pentecostal prophets in Zimbabwe in the context of Development. Journal of Sustainable Development in Africa 20 (1): 276-289.

Dube, E.E.N, 2019. Desperation in an attempt to curb modern-day prophets: Pentecostalisation and the Church in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Conspectus: The Journal of the South African Theological Seminary volume 27: 25-34.

Owojaiye, M. 2019. The problem of false prophets in Africa: Strengthening the church in the face of a troublesome trend, Lausanne Global Analysis 8(6).

Madzokere, N., Machingura, F. 2015. True and False Prophets/esses in the light of Prophets/esses and Wonders in Zimbabwe, Journal of Critical Southern Studies volume 3, Winter (2015).

Tydens die konferensie, en as deel van die kerk se 115de Verjaarsdagherdenking, is “The Story of John G. Lake – the first General of the AFM of South Africa” bekendgestel. Geskryf deur Past. Linda Marx, prof. Marius Nel en Past. Johan Klopper, is hierdie boek nou beskikbaar vanaf die Amazon-platform in ‘n Kindle-formaat: https://a.co/d/gVDvqdW. Die verhaal van John G. Lake sal mense inspireer, bemoedig en herinner dat die belofte van die Vader en die inwonende teenwoordigheid van die Heilige Gees vir elke gelowige beskikbaar is. Ek moedig jou aan om dit te lees en vertrou dat jy daardeur geseën sal word!

Ek bedank almal wat deel was van die organisasie om die konferensie moontlik te maak, sowel as almal wat deel was van die daaglikse program en elke individu wat die moeite gedoen het om dit by te woon. Sommige mense het ver gereis – selfs vir meer as een dag – om teenwoordig te wees. Ons het die diversiteit van ons kerk ervaar in aanbidding, in die program en in die bywoning. Baie mense het getuig oor die gees van eenheid en vrede onder almal wat teenwoordig was.

Vriendelike Groete
Henri Weideman

Newsflash: Friday, 15 September 2023

AFM Newsflash_Friday_15 SEPT 2023

RESOURCES

Thank You! Conference Appreciation –
Pastor Selby Khumalo (General Secretary):
https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

Catch Up! Conference Live Streams:
https://www.youtube.com/@theapostolicfaithmissionof621/streams

Dear Colleague,

ABLAZE AFM NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2023: A REFLECTION

I am very thankful that our 2023 National Conference (7-9 September) was indeed not just another meeting, but a time of refreshment, fellowship and real upliftment. We have been reminded that wé are the light of the world. That this light should never be hidden, but must be like a lamp on a lamp stand, and a city on a hill – a light visible to everybody.

Our light must shine in such a way that people will see our good deeds and glorify the true God in heaven. Our light must só shine so that it will have a generational impact, passing on our faith and our DNA as Pentecostal believers to our young people and children. We, like many others, used to be in the darkness, but since we became the Lord’s people, we are people of the Light and must live purposefully like people who belong to the Light. Our light must never reflect the changing cultures and circumstances around us, instead, just like the moon, which has no light of itself but only reflects the sun, we must always reflect Jesus.

During the PCD sessions which were very well attended, two very relevant subjects were presented. One was on mental health and how we can proactively address it, and the other on a Pentecostal perspective on the phenomenon of “fake” prophets. These presentations can be downloaded from the conference website: http://www.events.afm-ags.org/. In the meanwhile, we have been receiving enquiries about the book “Lead with Intent” by Hermann du Plessis. This book can be ordered by sending an e-mail directly to hermann@ttli.co.za – he will then reply with an invoice and delivery details. If you order from Hermann the book is R200 (it is more expensive when you buy from the retailers).

I thank everybody who was part of the organization to make the conference possible, as well as all who were part of the daily program and every individual who made the effort to attend. Some people travelled far – and for more than one day – to be present. We experienced the diversity of our church in worship, in the program and in attendance. Many people testified about the spirit of unity and peace amongst all present.

Several people described the conference as “powerful and memorable”, “a supernatural encounter” and “full of the power of the Holy Spirit.” I especially noted the comment of someone who said: “Our identity has been reaffirmed.” My prayer is that we will not just move on to the next, or another conference and experience, but that we will take the time to reflect on what God through His Holy Spirit shared with us during this conference. May we then not be like the person who sees him/herself in a mirror, go away and forget but may we really do in practice what we have heard.

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Nuusflits: Vrydag, 15 September 2023

AGS Nuusflits_Vrydag_15 SEPT 2023

HULPBRONNE

Konferensie: ‘n Woord van Dank –
Pastoor Selby Khumalo (Hoofsekretaris):
https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

Vang Op! Konferensie Sessies:
https://www.youtube.com/@theapostolicfaithmissionof621/streams

Liewe Kollega,

ABLAZE AGS NASIONALE KONFERENSIE 2023: REFLEKSIE

Ek is baie dankbaar dat ons 2023 Nasionale Konferensie (7-9 September) inderdaad nie net nog ‘n byeenkoms was nie, maar ‘n tyd van verfrissing, onderlinge gemeenskap en werklike opheffing. Ons is daaraan herinner dat óns die lig van die wêreld is. Dat hierdie lig nooit weggesteek moet word nie, maar soos ‘n lamp op ‘n kandelaar moet wees, en ‘n stad op ‘n heuwel – ‘n lig wat vir almal sigbaar is.

Ons lig moet só skyn dat mense ons goeie dade sal sien en die ware God in die hemel sal verheerlik. Ons lig moet skyn sodat dit ‘n impak op die volgende generasies sal hê en ons geloof en DNS as Pinkstergelowiges aan ons jongmense en kinders oorgedra word. Ons was soos baie ander, vroeër in die duisternis, maar sedert ons die Here se volk geword het, is ons mense van die Lig en moet ons doelgerig lewe soos mense wat aan die Lig behoort. Ons lig mag nooit die veranderende kulture en omstandighede rondom ons weerkaats nie. Net soos die maan wat geen lig van homself het nie, maar net die son weerkaats – so moet ons Jesus altyd weerkaats.

Tydens die PCD-sessies – wat baie goed bygewoon is – is twee baie relevante onderwerpe aangebied. Die een was oor geestesgesondheid en hoe ons dit proaktief kan aanspreek, en die ander oor ‘n Pinksterperspektief op die verskynsel van “valse” profete. Hierdie aanbiedinge kan afgelaai word vanaf die konferensie webblad: http://www.events.afm-ags.org/. Intussen het ons ook navrae ontvang oor Hermann du Plessis se boek getiteld “Leading with Intent”. Indien jy hierdie boek wil bestel, stuur ‘n e-pos direk aan Hermann by hermann@ttli.co.za. Hy sal dan terug antwoord met besonderhede rondom betaling en aflewering. Indien die boek direk by Hermann gekoop word is dit R200 (dit is heelwat duurder by boekhandelaars).

Ek bedank almal wat deel was van die organisasie om die konferensie moontlik te maak, sowel as almal wat deel was van die daaglikse program en elke individu wat die moeite gedoen het om dit by te woon. Sommige mense het ver gereis – selfs vir meer as een dag – om teenwoordig te wees. Ons het die diversiteit van ons kerk ervaar in aanbidding, in die program en in die bywoning. Baie mense het getuig oor die gees van eenheid en vrede onder almal wat teenwoordig was.

Verskeie mense het die konferensie beskryf as “kragtig en onvergeetlik”, as “’n bonatuurlike ontmoeting” en “vol van die krag van die Heilige Gees”. Ek het veral kennis geneem van die opmerking van iemand wat gesê het: “Ons identiteit is herbevestig.” My gebed is dat ons nie net sal aanbeweeg na die volgende, of ‘n ander konferensie en ervaring nie, maar dat ons die tyd sal neem om na te dink oor wat God deur sy Heilige Gees tydens hierdie konferensie met ons gedeel het. Mag ons dan nie soos die persoon wees wat hom/haarself in ‘n spieël sien weggaan en vergeet nie, maar laat ons regtig in die praktyk dóen wat ons gehoor het.

Vriendelike Groete!
Henri Weideman

Newsflash: Friday, 1 September 2023

AFM Newsflash_Friday 1 September_2023

RESOURCES
ABLAZE National Conference: Program
https://afm-ags.org/category/events/ 

Dear Colleague,

ABLAZE AFM NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2023

The theme for this conference is “Ablaze.” It is anchored in our theme for the year, being “Keep the Fire Burning” as well as on Matthew 5: 14-16 (NKJV), which instructs us as follows: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

The time we are living in calls us, in many ways like never before, to be a lamp on a lampstand. To not hide who we are and what we believe, but to be unashamed in our Pentecostal testimony and belief proclaiming and sharing our faith and taking up our Missional calling as people of the Holy Spirit.

Our light should not only shine to those in our communities and workplaces but must also give light to all who are in the house. It is of utmost importance that we pass our faith heritage and the DNA of Pentecost on to the next generation. Our children and young people need to understand where we come from, who we are and what we believe. Our house – being the AFM church, must be a place that is accessible to all people, especially to our youth and children.

In a time of ethical and moral decay on a worldwide basis, we must let our light shine before all people in such a way that they may see our good deeds and moral excellence and recognize, honour and glorify our Father in heaven. This speaks to the importance of a constantly lived, testimony. Not only on Sundays or at certain events, but every day and everywhere. It includes the fruit and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The children’s song “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…” based on Matthew 5: 16 and originally written by Harry Dixon around 1920, reminds us to let our light shine everywhere we go.

Our light should never be focused on glorifying human leaders, personalities or earthly philosophies, but must always reflect Jesus. All our services and ministry activities must be spaces where the Holy Spirit is welcome and active. Wherever the Holy Spirit is present, Jesus will be glorified.

I trust that the 2023 National Conference will not just be another meeting, but a time of real upliftment, transformation, motivation and renewal. Let us enjoy each other’s presence (talk to someone you do not know) and make the most of worshipping God together as one AFM church.

PROGRAM:

THURSDAY – 7 SEPTEMBER
Evening Service: 19h00-21h00
Speaker: Pastor Rudi Coertzen
Topic: A Lamp on a Lampstand

FRIDAY – 8 SEPTEMBER
PCD Sessions:
10h00-12h00
14h00-16h00

Pastors Continuous Development (PCD) sessions will be presented free of charge at 10h00-12h00 and repeated at 14h00-16h00. A total of 6 PCD credits will be awarded for attending both presentations:

Proactively addressing Mental Health –
By the Themba Thandeka Leadership Institute

The Fake Prophets phenomenon – a Pentecostal response –
By Dr Daniel Andrew

Evening Service: 19h00-21h00
Speaker: Pastor Barend Petersen
Topic: Give Light to All

SATURDAY – 9 SEPTEMBER
Morning Service: 9h00-11h00
Speaker: Past. Selby Khumalo
Topic: Let Your Light Shine

Afternoon Service: 14h00-16h00
Speaker: Pastor Jeremy Josias
Topic: The Source, Cause & Force
of being the Light of the World

Evening Service: 18h00-20h00
Speaker: Dr Henri Weideman
Topic: Our Light Reflects Jesus

Kindly note that the above services and PCD sessions will be streamed live on the following AFM of SA national social media platforms:

https://www.facebook.com/AFMOFSA/
https://youtube.com/@theapostolicfaithmissionof621?si=iOskqOjjBG1PIjRg

The “Word of Welcome” and “Program” are available below:

ABLAZE AFM National Conference_Program_2023

We are looking forward to a powerful and impactful national conference!

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Nuusflits: Vrydag, 1 September 2023

AGS Nuusflits Vrydag_1 September 2023

HULPBRONNE

ABLAZE AGS Nasionale Konferensie 2023: Program
https://afm-ags.org/category/events/ 

Liewe Kollega,

ABLAZE AGS NASIONALE KONFERENSIE 2023

Welkom!

Die tema van ons konferensie is “Ablaze”. Dit is geanker in ons tema vir die jaar, naamlik “Keep the Fire Burning” asook in Matteus 5: 14-16 (AFR83) wat ons soos volg opdrag gee: “Julle is die lig vir die wêreld. ‘n Stad wat op ‘n berg lê, kan nie weggesteek word nie; ook steek ‘n mens nie ‘n lamp op en sit dit onder ‘n emmer nie maar op ‘n lampstaander, en dit gee lig vir almal in die huis. Laat julle lig so voor die mense skyn, dat hulle julle goeie werke kan sien en julle Vader wat in die hemel is, verheerlik.”

Die tyd waarin ons leef roep ons soos nog nooit van tevore nie om ‘n lamp op ‘n lampstaander te wees – om nie weg te steek wie ons is en wat ons glo nie. Ons moet onbeskaamd wees in ons Pinkstergetuienis en geloof, ons geloof verkondig en deel met ander en ons Missionêre-roeping opneem as mense van die Heilige Gees.

Ons lig moet nie net skyn vir diegene in ons gemeenskappe en werksplekke nie, maar moet ook lig gee aan almal in ons huis. Dit is van uiterste belang dat ons ons geloofserfenis en die Pinkster-DNA aan die volgende generasie oordra. Ons kinders en jongmense moet verstaan ​​waar ons vandaan kom, wie ons is en wat ons glo. Ons “huis” (die AGS Kerk), moet ‘n plek wees wat toeganklik is vir alle mense, veral vir ons jeug en kinders.

In ‘n tyd van etiese en morele verval op ‘n wêreldwye basis, moet ons ons lig op so ‘n wyse voor alle mense laat skyn dat hulle ons goeie dade en morele uitnemendheid kan sien en ons Vader in die hemel erken, eer en verheerlik. Dit spreek van die belangrikheid van ‘n voortdurende getuienis wat uitgeleef word – nie net op Sondae of by sekere geleenthede nie, maar elke dag en oral waar ons onself bevind. Dit sluit die vrugte en die gawes van die Heilige Gees in. Die kinderliedjie “This little light of my, I’m gonna let it shine…” is gebaseer op Matteus 5: 16 en oorspronklik geskryf deur Harry Dixon in 1920. Hierdie liedjie herinner ons om ons lig te laat skyn oral waar ons gaan.

Ons lig moet nooit daarop gefokus wees om menslike leiers, persoonlikhede of aardse filosofieë te verheerlik nie, maar moet altyd Jesus weerspieël. Al ons dienste en bedieningsaktiwiteite moet ruimtes wees waar die Heilige Gees welkom en aktief is. Waar die Heilige Gees ook al teenwoordig is, sal Jesus verheerlik word.

Ek vertrou dat die 2023 Nasionale Konferensie nie net nog ‘n byeenkoms sal wees nie, maar ‘n tyd van werklike opheffing, transformasie, motivering en vernuwing. Laat ons mekaar se teenwoordigheid geniet (praat met iemand wat jy nie ken nie) en maak die meeste daarvan om God saam as een AGS Kerk te aanbid.

PROGRAM:

DONDERDAG – 7 SEPTEMBER
Aanddiens: 19h00-21h00
Spreker: Pastoor Rudi Coertzen
Onderwerp: A Lamp on a Lampstand

VRYDAG – 8 SEPTEMBER
PCD Sessies:
10h00-12h00
14h00-16h00

Pastors Continuous Development (PCD) sessies sal gratis aangebied word om 10h00-12h00 en 14h00-16h00 herhaal word. ‘n Totaal van 6 PCD-krediete sal toegeken word vir die bywoning van beide aanbiedings:

Proactively addressing Mental Health –
Deur die Themba Thandeka Leierskapsinstituut

The Fake Prophets phenomenon – a Pentecostal response –
Deur Dr Daniel Andrew

Aanddiens: 19h00-21h00
Spreker: Pastoor Barend Petersen
Onderwerp: Give Light to All

SATERDAG – 9 SEPTEMBER
Oggenddiens: 9h00-11h00
Spreker: Pastoor Selby Khumalo
Onderwerp: Let Your Light Shine

Middagdiens: 14h00-16h00
Spreker: Pastoor Jeremy Josias
Onderwerp: The Source, Cause & Force of being the Light of the World

Aanddiens: 18h00-20h00
Spreker: Dr Henri Weideman
Onderwerp: Our Light Reflects Jesus

Neem kennis dat die bogenoemde dienste en PCD-sessies regstreeks op die volgende AGS van SA nasionale sosiale media-platforms gestroom sal word:

https://www.facebook.com/AFMOFSA/ 
https://youtube.com/@theapostolicfaithmissionof621?si=iOskqOjjBG1PIjRg

Die “Woord van Welkom” en “Program” is nou beskikbaar in PDF formaat:

ABLAZE AFM National Conference_Program_2023

Vriendelike Groete!
Henri Weideman

Newsflash: Friday, 18 August 2023

Download the PDF version below (e-mail & printer-friendly):

AFM Newsflash Friday_18 AUG_2023

RESOURCES

Pastoral Letter: 2nd Quarter 2023
https://afm-ags.org/pastoral-letter-2nd-quarter-2023/

2023 NOB Empowerments: Video Presentations Now Available!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMguBPJZpLHbz8L2qUnk-3LmgsrI9BKFc

Dear Colleague,

1. BUILDING STRONG FAMILIES IN DIFFICULT TIMES

We are experiencing an ever-increasing rise in the cost of living. The cost of fuel and transport, food and clothes are higher every month. Add to this the impact of higher interest rates for interest-carrying debt, as well as the very real possibility of a recession – and we see a picture of rising pressure on all households.

The weakening of the Rand against major currencies has a negative impact on the cost of all imported goods and a knock-on effect on the price of almost everything. Difficult economic times can put pressure on the well-being of individuals and their households. Breadwinners (especially in single-parent households) are under stress, putting marriage relationships and the general atmosphere at home under increasing duress. This can create a very negative and insecure environment for young children to grow up in.

What can be done?

Pray: As believers, we do not have to become anxious to the point of hopelessness. In Philippians 4 : 6-7 Paul encourages us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Budget: It is always important, but more so in times of economic difficulty, that we should `be aware of how we spend our money. As a rule, expenditure should never be more than income. This simply means that we cannot give out more money than we get in. We must prioritize our spending. Absolute essentials like food, electricity and transport must be paid first. Then other expenses like new clothes and leisure can be considered. It is the differentiation between needs and wants.

Minimize debt: Except for acquiring a place to stay and maybe a motorcar, all other interest-bearing debt should be avoided as far as possible. Buying clothes, food and other household items on credit, means that over time you pay double or triple for that item because of the interest charged.

Stretch your Rands: I remember how during difficult times; my mother would find creative ways of preparing tasty food with little money. Trips were carefully planned to avoid unnecessary fuel expenses. Many food items and clothing were only bought when there were “specials.” Some of my (very nice) clothes were not new, but “inherited” from friends and family whose children outgrew them.

Communicate: Parents need to communicate to the members of their household that we are in difficult times. It is important that this be done in a sensitive and wise way. Do not create anxiety and insecurity in your children’s minds but make them aware of the fact that we cannot just spend money unwisely.

We do not have to live in fear and hopelessness during difficult times. We must do what we can with what we have and trust God to keep us and guide us through. What does the Bible have to say about economic difficulties? We found a useful link that we would like to share with you in this regard:

https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/faith-during-financial-crisis

2. AFM OF SA NATIONAL CONFERENCE: HAVE YOU REGISTERED YET?

We are excited to announce the details for the upcoming AFM of SA National Conference. Do not miss this opportunity! Be part of a powerful time of ministry, prayer, worship and fellowship. We are looking forward to welcoming the AFM Family to the Western Cape for this dynamic gathering.

Get ALL information on how to successfully register from:
https://afm-ags.org/ablaze-national-conference-2023/

Online and Offline registration options are available! Early registration is encouraged to avoid any inconveniences associated with late registration.

Online Registrations:

Scan the QR Code

Offline Registrations:

Download the Registration Form
CLICK HERE

We are looking forward to seeing you in Cape Town!

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Nuusflits: Vrydag, 18 Augustus 2023

Laai die PDF weergawe hier af (om maklik te druk of per e-pos aan te stuur):

AGS Nuusflits Vrydag_18 AUG_2023

HULPBRONNE

Pastorale Brief: 2de Kwartaal 2023
https://afm-ags.org/pastorale-brief-2de-kwartaal-2023/

2023 NOB Bemagtigingsbesoeke: Video-aanbiedngs Nou Beskikbaar!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMguBPJZpLHbz8L2qUnk-3LmgsrI9BKFc

Liewe Kollega,

1. BOU STERK GESINNE IN MOEILIKE TYE

Ons ervaar ‘n toenemende styging in lewenskoste. Die koste van brandstof en vervoer, kos en klere is elke maand hoër. Voeg hierby die impak van hoër rentekoerse vir rentedraende skuld, asook die moontlikheid van ‘n resessie – en ons sien ‘n prentjie van toenemende druk op alle huishoudings.

Die verswakking van die Rand teenoor alle groot geldeenhede het ‘n negatiewe impak op die koste van alle ingevoerde goedere en ‘n uitkringeffek op die prys van byna alles. Moeilike ekonomiese tye kan druk op die welstand van individue en huishoudings plaas. Broodwinners (veral in enkelouerhuishoudings) ervaar spanning en dit plaas huweliksverhoudings en die algemene atmosfeer tuis onder toenemende druk. Dit kan ‘n baie negatiewe en onseker omgewing skep vir jong kinders om in groot te word.

Wat kan gedoen word?

Bid: As gelowiges hoef ons nie angstig te raak tot die punt van hopeloosheid nie. In Filippense 4 :6-7 (NLV) moedig Paulus ons aan: “Moet oor niks bekommerd wees nie, maar bid oor alles. Vra alles wat julle nodig het van God, terwyl julle Hom ook dank vir alles wat Hy doen. En God se vrede, wat meer is as wat ’n mens dink, sal oor julle harte en gedagtes die wag hou omdat julle aan Christus Jesus verbonde is.”

Begroting: Dit is altyd belangrik (en meer so in tye van ekonomiese probleme), dat ons bewus moet wees van hoe ons ons geld spandeer. As ‘n reël moet uitgawes nooit meer as inkomstes wees nie. Dit beteken eenvoudig dat ons nie meer geld kan uitgee as wat ons inkry nie. Ons moet ons besteding prioritiseer. Absolute noodsaaklikhede soos kos, elektrisiteit en vervoer moet eers betaal word. Dan kan ander uitgawes soos nuwe klere en ontspanning oorweeg word. Dit is die onderskeid tussen behoeftes en begeertes.

Verminder skuld: Behalwe vir die verkryging van blyplek en ‘n motor, moet alle ander rentedraende skuld sover moontlik vermy word. Om klere, kos en ander huishoudelike items op krediet te koop, beteken dat jy mettertyd dubbel of drievoudig vir daardie item betaal as gevolg van die rente wat gehef word.

Rek jou Rande:  Ek onthou hoe my ma in moeilike tye kreatiewe maniere sou vind om smaaklike kos met min geld voor te berei. Motor ritte is noukeurig beplan, om onnodige brandstofuitgawes te vermy. Baie voedselitems en klere is eers gekoop wanneer daar “spesiale aanbiedinge” was. Van my (baie mooi) klere was nie nuut nie, maar “geërf” van vriende en familie wie se kinders dit ontgroei het.

Kommunikeer:  Ouers moet die feit dat ons in moeilike tye is, aan die lede van hul huishouding kommunikeer. Dit is belangrik dat dit op ‘n sensitiewe en wyse manier gedoen word. Moenie angs en onsekerheid in jou kinders se gedagtes skep nie, maar maak hulle bewus van die feit dat ons nie net onverstandig geld kan spandeer nie.

Ons hoef nie in moeilike tye in vrees en hopeloosheid te leef nie. Ons moet doen wat ons kan met wat ons het en God vertrou om ons te bewaar en ons deur te dra. Wat het die Bybel te sê oor ekonomiese uitdagings? Ons het ‘n nuttige skakel gevind wat ons in hierdie verband met jou wil deel:

https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/faith-during-financial-crisis

2. AGS NASIONALE KONFERENSIE: REGISTRASIES NOU OOP

Ons is opgewonde om die besonderhede vir die komende AGS Nasionale Konferensie aan te kondig. Moenie hierdie geleentheid misloop nie! Wees deel van ‘n kragtige tyd van bediening, gebed, aanbidding en samesyn. Ons sien daarna uit om die AGS Familie in die Wes-Kaap te verwelkom vir hierdie dinamiese byeenkoms.

Kry ALLE inligting oor hoe om suksesvol te registreer by:
https://afm-ags.org/ablaze-national-conference-2023/

Aanlyn en tradisionele registrasie opsies is beskikbaar. Vroeë registrasie word aangemoedig om enige ongerief verbonde aan laat registrasie te vermy.

Aanlyn Registrasies:

Skandeer die QR-kode

Tradisionele Registrasies:

Laai die Registrasievorm hier af:
KLIK HIER

Ons sien uit daarna om jou in Kaapstad te verwelkom!

Vriendelike Groete!
Henri Weideman

Newsflash: Friday, 28 July 2023

Download the PDF version below (e-mail & printer-friendly):

 AFM Newsflash_Friday_28 July 2023

RESOURCES

Pastoral Letter: 2nd Quarter 2023 New!
https://afm-ags.org/pastoral-letter-2nd-quarter-2023/

2023 NOB Empowerments: Video Presentations Now Available!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMguBPJZpLHbz8L2qUnk-3LmgsrI9BKFc

Dear Colleague,

1. THE WOMEN IN OUR LIVES

Women have done and are still doing a lot in our communities, churches, homes, and personal lives to keep everything in society together and moving forward – in a good way. Over the years, many social changes that we see and celebrate today were initiated by women who stood up for what is right and fair. In our homes, families and in the workplace, women often play a vital role in keeping healthy habits, strong faith convictions, best practices and moral standards in place.

All of us alive today were born at some point from a woman. Our mothers gave birth to us, fed and nurtured us, and taught us at least the basic principles of life. I remember how my mother taught me to clean my room, make my bed and do chores in and around the house. She was also the first one to introduce me to faith in God, by reading to me from the Children’s Bible and teaching me to pray. She taught me to stand up for myself and what I believed in and to take responsibility for my own future. Later in life, she was the one who worked to earn extra income and enable me to register for my first year at university.

To this day I can still see the face of “Aunty” Willie Marais, the lady who was my Sunday School teacher in Grade 1 in Kimberley. I cannot specifically remember what she taught us in class, but I remember her friendliness and her love for Jesus. I also recall a granny “Aunty” Jonker, who would call me to her house as a young pastor, so that she can pray for me and encourage me.

More recent is the experience of my own wife caring for, nurturing and encouraging our daughter when she was growing up. She provided guidance on many things and taught her to cook proper and tasty food. All of this whilst working to earn an income for our future well-being and supporting me in ministry and life in general. I read Proverbs 31:30-31 (NIV) in the context of all the above: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honour her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise…”

Let us make a point of respecting, celebrating and acknowledging all the women in our lives – especially during Women’s Month this August.

We have excellent leaders who are women (in the AFM of SA we have 378 female Pastors), wonderful mothers and exceptional wives, sisters and daughters with whom we share life. May they all feel appreciated and valued by what we say and especially by how we treat them.

2. AFM OF SA NATIONAL CONFERENCE: REGISTRATIONS OPEN

Register NOW: http://www.afm-conference.co.za/

Kindly take note of the latest Circular from the desk of Past. Selby Khumalo, regarding the Registration Process for the National Conference: https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

7-9 September 2023 @Lighthouse Christian Centre
275 Voortrekker Road, Parow, Cape Town

We are excited to announce the details for the upcoming AFM of SA National Conference. Do not miss this opportunity! Be part of a powerful time of ministry, prayer, worship and fellowship. We are looking forward to welcoming the AFM Family to the Western Cape for this dynamic gathering.

Get ALL information on how to successfully register from:
https://afm-ags.org/ablaze-national-conference-2023/

Online and Offline registration options are available! Early registration is encouraged to avoid any inconveniences associated with late registration.

Online Registrations:
Scan the QR Code
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Offline Registrations:

Download the Registration Form
CLICK HERE

We are looking forward to seeing you in Cape Town!

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Nuusflits: Vrydag, 28 Julie 2023

Laai die PDF weergawe hier af (om maklik te e-pos of uit te druk):

AGS Nuusflits_Vrydag_28 Julie 2023

HULPBRONNE

Pastorale Brief: 2de Kwartaal 2023 Nuut!
https://afm-ags.org/pastorale-brief-2de-kwartaal-2023/

2023 NOB Bemagtigingsbesoeke: Video-aanbiedngs Nou Beskikbaar!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMguBPJZpLHbz8L2qUnk-3LmgsrI9BKFc

Liewe Kollega,

1. DIE VROUE IN ONS LEWENS

Vroue het baie gedoen en doen steeds baie in ons gemeenskappe, in ons kerke en ook in ons huise en persoonlike lewens om alles in die samelewing bymekaar te hou en op ‘n goeie manier vorentoe te laat beweeg. Oor die jare is baie van die sosiale veranderinge wat ons vandag sien en vier, geïnisieer deur vroue wat opgestaan het vir dit wat reg en regverdig is. In ons huise, gesinne en in die werkplek speel vroue dikwels ‘n belangrike rol om gesonde gewoontes, sterk geloofsoortuigings, beste praktyk en morele standaarde in plek te hou.

Almal van ons wat vandag leef, is op ‘n stadium uit ‘n vrou gebore. Ons moeders het ons gevoed en gekoester en ons ten minste die basiese beginsels van die lewe geleer. Ek onthou hoe my eie ma my geleer het om my kamer skoon te maak, my eie bed te op te maak en ‘n paar take in en om die huis te doen. Sy was ook die eerste een wat my voorgestel het aan geloof in God, deur vir my uit die Kinderbybel te lees en my te leer bid. Sy het my geleer om op te staan vir myself en dit waarin ek glo, en om verantwoordelikheid te neem vir my eie toekoms. Later in haar lewe was sy die een wat gewerk het om ekstra inkomste te verdien om my in staat te stel om vir my eerste jaar op universiteit te registreer.

Tot vandag toe kan ek nog die gesig sien van Tannie Willie Marais, die dame wat my Sondagskoolonderwyseres in Graad 1 in Kimberley was. Ek kan nie spesifiek onthou wat sy ons in die klas geleer het nie, maar ek onthou haar vriendelikheid en haar liefde vir Jesus. Ek onthou ook ‘n ouma, Tannie Jonker, wat my as ‘n jong pastoor na haar huis sou roep sodat sy vir my kan bid en my kan bemoedig.

Meer onlangs, is die ervaring van my eie vrou wat ons dogter versorg, koester en aanmoedig terwyl sy grootgeword het. Sy het leiding of verskeie vlakke verskaf en haar geleer om behoorlike en smaaklike kos te maak. Dit alles terwyl sy gewerk het om ‘n inkomste vir ons toekomstige welstand te verdien en my te ondersteun in die bediening en die lewe in die algemeen. Ek lees Spreuke 31: 30-31 (NLV) in die konteks van al bogenoemde: “Skoonheid is soms misleidend. ’n Mooi voorkoms hou nie vir altyd nie. ’n Vrou wat ontsag het vir die Here verdien om geprys te word. Gee vir haar die waardering wat sy verdien. Laat sy erkenning geniet…op grond van alles wat sy gedoen het.”

Kom ons maak ‘n punt daarvan om al die vroue in ons lewens te respekteer, te vier en te erken – veral tydens Vrouemaand hierdie Augustus. Ons het uitstekende leiers wat vroue is (in die AGS van SA het ons 378 vroue Pastore), wonderlike moeders en uitsonderlike vroue, susters en dogters met wie ons die lewe deel. Mag hulle almal waardeer en gewaardeer voel deur wat ons sê en veral deur hoe ons hulle behandel.

2. AGS NASIONALE KONFERENSIE: REGISTRASIES NOU OOP

Registreer NOU: http://www.afm-conference.co.za/ 

Neem asseblief kennis van die jongste Omsendbrief vanaf Past. Selby Khumalo (Hoofsekretaris), oor die registrasieproses vir die nasionale konferensie: https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

7-9 September 2023 by die Lighthouse Christian Centre
275 Voortrekker Road, Parow, Kaapstad

Ons is opgewonde om die besonderhede vir die komende AGS Nasionale Konferensie aan te kondig. Moenie hierdie geleentheid misloop nie! Wees deel van ‘n kragtige tyd van bediening, gebed, aanbidding en samesyn. Ons sien daarna uit om die AGS Familie in die Wes-Kaap te verwelkom vir hierdie dinamiese byeenkoms.

Kry ALLE inligting oor hoe om suksesvol te registreer by:
https://afm-ags.org/ablaze-national-conference-2023/

Aanlyn en tradisionele registrasie opsies is beskikbaar. Vroeë registrasie word aangemoedig om enige ongerief verbonde aan laat registrasie te vermy.

Aanlyn Registrasies:
Skandeer die QR-kode
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Tradisionele Registrasies:
Laai die Registrasievorm hier af:

KLIK HIER

Ons sien uit daarna om jou in Kaapstad te verwelkom!

Vriendelike Groete!
Henri Weideman